Earlier in 2023, I got my hands on a modern Lego Train Set. Having many parts from other, earlier sets, this one is magnificent. I will do a review of it in due course, but for now, I want to talk about the MOC (My Own Creation) idea I thought up so that I cold use one motor to shift un-powered models. I have called it, the PRU (Powered Rail Unit).
The first one that came to mind was the basic 2018 Hogwart’s Express. This has no power unit. I could have adapted it, but the power modules are pricey. So, the plan, create a shunter unit in Lego Studio with the posibility of building it for use in the future.
It would be placed within the length of the train and be able to move any unit whithout the need for an additional power module. I have added the file and deisgn, here, so that you can see it for yourself in the Studio interface. Aside from the fact that Bricklink is a saviour in terms of parts, it is also a great place to show off your own ideas, look up sets via their part numbers and also get your hands on Studio v3. It’s a steep(ish) learning curve, but worth it in the end.
Back to the MOC; you can see that it is in a Diesel Shunter style. I was happy with this look and know that you could always chage the core brick colour to match the style of train it will work within. Using the dark red bricks for the Hogwart’s Express, or the green for the modern sets, more so if the unit is being used for this, instead of in the set it came with. With addition of Bluetooth and a mobile app, I like the dynamic nature of such a build.
Give it a go, have a play, and see what you come up with. Download the PRU Studio file, here.
